Did your family just add its first dog, and you aren’t sure exactly what to do here? That’s an understandable situation because good dog owners often make it look easy to raise a smart and happy pup. However, they went through a lot of hard work that ensured their little buddy was happy. Here are a few tools that you can use to make this process a little bit easier for you.
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Pet Training
As a first-time dog owner, you might look at your pup’s questionable (or, let’s face it, rotten) behavior and think that there’s nothing you can do to improve it. That’s simply not the case. Dogs are like children in that they need direction and thrive on getting it from their parents or owners. Thankfully, professional dog training can help you streamline this process.
This process will not only teach your dog how to go outside when they need to use the bathroom but also cover things like simple commands, tricks, and much more. Just as importantly, dog training is also “people” training in that it teaches you how to work with your dog and makes it simpler for you to correct problematic behaviors that they might be showing.
Regular Pet Cleaning
While you can always buy pet-cleaning supplies and take care of your pet that way, you might also want to schedule regular visits with professionals. They can trim your puppy’s hair, manage their nails, get rid of stains on their coat, and even make their fur healthier. It’s a huge advantage that can make your pet more comfortable and minimize their agitation when it’s hot.
This step isn’t just smart for your pet but for your family as well. For instance, if anybody in your home has pet allergies, regular cleaning can minimize this problem. That’s because it can eliminate pet dander and loose hair and ensure that it doesn’t bother your family nearly as much. While it won’t eliminate allergy reactions, it can reduce them severely and keep your family comfy.
Pet Pen
No matter what size backyard you have, it’s important to find ways to keep your pup safe in it. For example, a large pet pen can provide them with ample space to run and play, even if your yard is fairly small. Most importantly, it has walls that keep them from getting out if you live near a road. That’s enough to make them worth the time and money to set them up in your home.
The cool thing about these pens is that they’re designed to be easy to tear down and move, meaning that you can take them wherever you go with your dog. As a result, you can set them up when you visit a vacation home or if you take them to stay with friends or family members. Even better, you can feel comfortable teaching their operation to anybody who watches your dog for you.
Carrying Crate
If you plan on taking your dog places with you in your car, it’s important to get a carrying crate. It should be large enough for them to move around and lay comfortably without feeling cramped. They shouldn’t have to hunch over in the back, nor should they feel unable to lie down. Getting a crate not only keeps them safe but avoids potential problems in accidents.
The interesting thing about your crate is that your dog doesn’t have to fear it. In fact, proper crate training will make it a comfortable and enjoyable place for your dog to hang out. When properly trained, a dog will treat its crate like a second bed, which will make it easier for you to store them when you need to go. Note: never use the crate as punishment after crate training.
Learning Toys
Toys are essential for keeping any dog happy, but the right toys can help your dog learn with purpose. Educational toys often include various fun activities that will keep your pup happy and excited. They’re an excellent option because they not only help your dog burn a little energy but also build their intelligence and ensure that they become happier and healthier dogs.
The cool thing about learning toys is that they tap into your dog’s innate love of play and help them learn new skills and abilities that they might not have mastered otherwise! For example, there are dog-treat toys that use clever puzzles to hide tasty food. They’re designed to be something a dog can easily figure out, which makes them fun and educational for your pup!
Getting Used to Pet Ownership
These simple tools can help you acclimate to life with your new pet and ensure that they understand their role in your home. It’s not just about making things easier for you but ensuring that your little pup feels better living with you. Animals are amazingly adaptable, especially dogs, so make sure you take these roles seriously to ensure you get the best results possible.
Just as importantly, it can help you get used to pet ownership at your own pace. There’s no reason that you have to rush things or feel uncomfortable getting used to owning a dog. Even better, most of these tools are things that your kids and family can set up for you and ensure that they operate smoothly. That’s a huge advantage for anyone interested in dog ownership.
